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The British Virgin Islands boasts a variety of places to shop ranging from Boutiques, Department Stores, Gift Shops, Food Markets & Provisioning. Special purchases include carved wooden items, straw-work, jewelry made from conch (pronounced ‘konk') shell, rum, local spices and sauces and the attractive batik material, designed and made locally.
Shopping on St. Thomas, Virgin Islands
St. Thomas is home to world renowned shopping. Hundreds of duty free shops line the streets and alleys of the capital, Charlotte Amalie. Multiple buildings in Havensight, where most cruise ships dock, house shops and boutiques. There are smaller malls around the island and even the larger hotels offer shopping.
The best buys on St. Thomas include jewelry, alcohol, china, crystal, perfumes, art, clothing, watches and cameras. If you are in the market for something in particular, primarily jewelry and cameras, it is a good idea to know what the going price is in your home town; some items are better deals than others so it pays to know what items cost at home.
Shopping in Charlotte Amalie
The greatest density of stores is in Charlotte Amalie. The principal street there is Dronningens Gade, better known as Main Street. Parallel to Main Street is Back Street and Waterfront. Stores line each of these main roads, and in between the three roads are side streets and alleys where even more shops are located. In the alleys, like Royal Dane Mall, Palm Passage and Riise Alley, you will find many unique shops and boutiques. The stores in Charlotte Amalie are housed in and among historical buildings; so shopping and sightseeing in one trip is easy. Small cozy restaurants and a couple fun bars are located among the stores, perfect for lunch or a refreshing drink.
Shopping in Havensight
Havensight is the location of the second large agglomeration of stores that cater to visitors. It is right next to the primary cruise ship dock and the shopping area is made up of Havensight Shopping Center, Buccaneer Mall and Port of Sale. Long buildings house some 60+ stores. Shop for jewelry, clothes, perfumes, liquor, electronics, music, sunglasses, hot sauces and souvenirs. You can have lunch in Havensight also; there are several good restaurants to choose from.
Shopping Around the Island
Smaller shopping areas include; American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook, Lockhart Gardens, Tutu Park Mall and Nisky Center. These areas cater primarily to residents; you will find pharmacies, clothing stores, grocery stores, unique shops, art shops and music stores at these locations. Mountain Top and Paradise Point are both attractions, primarily known for offering extraordinary views but they both offer shopping as well. Tillett Gardens is an oasis of arts and crafts; pottery, silk-screened fabrics, candles, paintings, jewelry, and more.
Greet first, and then ask your question
If you are asking for assitance or want any questions answered. The island custom starts with a greeting of "Good morning sir or ma'am" accompanied by a smile, will generally bring a polite and helpful response to your inquiry. Then feel free to ask your question. Don't forget to say "Thank You".
By: Shabina Sanad
GOWEALTHY.COM © 2008
For comments: editor@gowealthy.com
